The Blueprint Special Education Workgroup convened on November 29, 2023, from 4 to 6 p.m. EST, hosted by the Maryland Department of Education. The meeting aimed to advance discussions on improving educational outcomes for students with disabilities.

The session began with logistical announcements, including the availability of a sign language interpreter, Spanish translation, and closed captioning services. Following these introductions, Dr. Wright and Liz provided a warm welcome to attendees, expressing gratitude for their participation despite the cold weather.

The meeting featured a recap of the previous three sessions, highlighting the progress made thus far. A key addition to the workgroup was introduced: consultant Nate Levinson, who will assist in identifying recommendations and facilitating discussions among members. The group acknowledged the importance of feedback and collaboration to enhance their efforts.

Liz emphasized the need for ongoing communication, encouraging participants to share their thoughts in writing and engage in meaningful dialogue. The goal is to foster diverse perspectives and creative discussions that will lead to actionable recommendations for the benefit of students with disabilities.

As the meeting progressed, the workgroup focused on outlining future meetings and next steps, aiming to solidify their recommendations and initiate concrete actions. The overall tone of the meeting was one of optimism and commitment to making a positive impact in special education within Maryland.